Alfredo Ramses
Founder and Lead Editor of Rock Climbing Realms. I've spent over a decade researching climbing gear, safety techniques, and route beta—working with our network of climbers to separate legit gear from marketing hype. I don't just write about climbing; I obsess over the details that keep you safe on the wall. Every gear review and technique guide here has been vetted by experienced climbers before it earns a spot.
Why Staying Warm Is Only Half Your Bivouac Problem
Never just hang in your harness all night [suspension syndrome is real] — the bivouac survival skills climbers need before getting benighted.
Ice Axe Self-Arrest in 4 Steps for Any Fall
Never dig your crampons in mid-slide (it cartwheels you). Learn the ice axe self-arrest that stops any fall, from all four fall positions.
How to Build a Snow Anchor That Holds in Any Snow
Don't trust a dawn snow anchor at noon: the sun can cut it to bodyweight. Build the reinforced T-slot [4 kN to 8 kN] before you descend.
7 Alpine Climbing Skills That Actually Keep You Safe
Never trust self-arrest to save you. The 7 alpine climbing skills that actually keep you safe (start with footwork, not the dramatic save).
How Alpinism Actually Works on the Mountain
Alpinism explained: simul-climbing at 30-50 ft, alpine vs expedition style, UNESCO's 2019 heritage status + a 5-phase path from Baker to Aconcagua
Can’t Afford a Climbing Gym? Real Options
After watching a kid walk away from the price board, I mapped every program that makes climbing gyms affordable.
How to Find a Climbing Mentor Who Actually Shows Up
Don't wait for a climbing mentor to appear — most climbers waste seasons hoping. Here's how to find one (free & paid) + red flags to avoid.
Why Ashima Shiraishi Sent V15 Before Most Adults
V10 at 8, V13 at 10, V15 at 14 — Ashima Shiraishi's full record timeline + the strength-to-weight science behind every youngest-ever send.
Why the Best Mountain Books Have Nothing to Do With Climbing
Stop reading the same 5 climbing books. Mountain literature spans poetry, science + philosophy — here's where to start.
How Psicobloc Competitions Actually Work
Psicobloc format: 55ft wall, 26ft overhang, 5.13+ routes ➜ head-to-head knockout bracket to the finals pool.
